KATHMANDU: Tensions erupted in Aurahi Rural Municipality-1 of Dhanusha district on Thursday afternoon as police clashed with locals over a dispute related to romantic relationships between youths from different villages. The confrontation unfolded when law enforcement authorities intervened in a disagreement involving youths from neighboring communities. According to reports, a group of youths had blocked roads and initiated a protest, prompting police intervention.

During the confrontation, clashes broke out between the youths and police officers, resulting in injuries to two police personnel and one member of the Armed Police Force. To restore order and quell the unrest, police resorted to firing nine tear gas shells. In response to the incident, authorities have taken five individuals into custody for their involvement.

DSP Ranjan Awale, spokesperson for the Dhanusha Police Office, confirmed that two couples, suspected to be engaged in romantic relationships, have fled, and their whereabouts remain unknown. Concerned parents of the girls involved have filed complaints at the District Police Office, alleging that the boys have eloped with their underage daughters. Subsequently, relatives of the girls staged a road blockade on Thursday, demanding the search and apprehension of the individuals accused of elopement.